Market Updates

Infrastructure assets can have both bond-like and equity-like characteristics Infrastructure assets, particularly listed infrastructure companies, typically exhibit total returns that have some similarities to both equities and bonds. Some infrastructure assets will have revenue streams more similar to bonds, while others will have a higher equity comparable component. For example, the revenue a toll road […]

In summary: 55% exceeded earnings expectations (versus a norm of 43%); 66% have seen their profits rise from a year ago (in line with recent trends); and 62% have increased dividends from a year ago (also in line with recent trends). The better performers during the season were beneficiaries of the continuing low interest rate […]

There has been a lot of commentary surrounding Europe in recent weeks. In this article, we explore the main issues that require consideration. 1. Quantitative easing The European Central Bank (ECB) launched quantitative easing (QE) as expected. It plans to make purchases of 60 billion euros per month until at least September 2016. The move […]

There’s been a lot of commentary around the recent drop in oil prices, and what it might take for them to recover. Integral to this discussion is the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and Saudi Arabia, which produce about 33% and 9% of the world’s oil respectively. In this article, we examine the factors […]

In the first industry-wide move since 2012, the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) cut its reserve ratio requirement (RRR) – the amount of cash banks have to hold as reserves – by 0.5% to 19.5% this month. The easing is likely to provide support in the near-term to China’s slowing economy – and, in-turn, sluggish […]

Given the continued volatility in investment markets, it’s no wonder some investors develop mixed feelings about investing in shares. When markets are volatile, emotional instincts can begin to play a role in investment decisions. In this environment, a well-anchored investor stands to benefit by persisting with an appropriate investment strategy to achieve long-term results. In […]

Statement by Glenn Stevens, Governor: Monetary Policy Decision At its meeting today, the Board decided to lower the cash rate by 25 basis points to 2.25 per cent, effective 4 February 2015. Growth in the global economy continued at a moderate pace in 2014. China's growth was in line with policymakers' objectives. The US economy […]

Globally Growth is likely to remain around 3.5%; ranging from 1-1.5% in the Eurozone and Japan, 3.5% in the US and 7% in China. Inflationary pressure is likely to remain fairly low and the overall monetary backdrop, despite a probable tightening by the US in the middle of the year, will remain fairly easy. We […]

This is especially true for retirees who are largely reliant upon their financial assets to fund their lifestyle. As a result, advisers are fine-tuning their advice frameworks, and seeking investment strategies better matched to client goals and expectations. With the new year upon us, we explore the importance of goal-setting and retirement planning. Boost your […]

A combination of the blanket news coverage of economic worries, the associated information avalanche we are now exposed to and our innate fascination with crises is likely making us worse investors. We’re more fearful, more jittery and more focused on the short-term. With the year drawing to a close, now is a good time to […]

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